Welcome, dear listeners, to another cozy bedtime story here on Drift Off. I'm your host Joanne and tonight I'm

delighted to bring you the story of a cat by Mary DeMorgan, a magical tale that I hope will

whisk you away into a world of wonder and calm. Before we begin, a gentle reminder, if you enjoy the stories and would like to support

Drift Off, please consider subscribing to Drift Off premium. Your subscription helps keep the podcast

ad-free and running smoothly. You'll receive access to two bonus episodes every month.

It's a lovely way to experience even more calming tales

while supporting the show.

Now, let's take a moment to settle in.

Wherever you are, find a comfortable position and close your eyes if that feels right.

Imagine yourself in a cozy, warm room with a gentle fire crackling beside you.

You're wrapped up in a soft blanket, and the golden glow of the firelight dances across the walls,

casting gentle shadows that flicker and sway.

Feel the warmth radiate, filling the space with a soothing sense of safety and peace.

And as you breathe slowly, let go of the day's thoughts,

allowing yourself to be fully present in this tranquil moment.

Let the gentle comfort of the room and the soft and biting glow create a perfect cocoon of relaxation around you.

My friend, you are ready to drift off now into the story ahead where gentle adventures await.

Thank you for being here, and let's get ready now to enjoy the story.

Once, they're listening to Once there lived an old gentleman, who was a very rich old gentleman and able to buy nearly everything he wanted.

He had earned all his wealth for himself by trading in a big city.

And now he had grown so fond of money that he loved it better than anything else in the world

and thought of nothing except how he could save it up and make more.

...